NDC Chief of Staff Calls for Unity After Regional Executive Elections, Warns Against Internal Divisions

Ghana's Chief of Staff has appealed to winners of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regional executive elections to actively work towards reconciling with defeated contestants, cautioning that internal divisions could undermine the party's ability to govern effectively and deliver on its promises to Ghanaians.

The appeal comes at a critical moment for the NDC, which returned to power following the December 2024 general elections. With a fresh mandate from the electorate, the party's ability to maintain internal cohesion at the regional level is seen as a key factor in translating political promises into tangible development outcomes for citizens across the country.

A Test of Democratic Maturity

The Chief of Staff emphasised that the way political parties manage their internal elections is a strong indicator of their broader organisational strength and democratic character. Elections within any political organisation will inevitably produce winners and losers, but it is what happens in the aftermath — whether the party closes ranks or fractures along factional lines — that truly defines its readiness to lead.

He stressed that the NDC's regional structures must model the kind of inclusive, democratic culture that the party expects to promote at the national level. Winners were urged not to treat their victories as a mandate to sideline or marginalise those who contested against them, but rather to build bridges and harness the talent and energy of all members for the collective good.

Why It Matters for Ghana

Ghana's major political parties — the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) — have historically struggled with post-election tensions within their own ranks following internal elections. These disputes have at times spilled over into the public domain, denting the credibility of the parties and distracting from governance priorities.

For the NDC, which is now responsible for managing the affairs of state, internal disharmony at the regional level could have real consequences. Regional executives play a critical role in mobilising party members, communicating government policies to communities, and providing grassroots feedback to national leadership. A fractured regional structure would weaken this chain and potentially hamper the government's outreach and delivery efforts.

Beyond party politics, the message carries a broader democratic significance. When political parties demonstrate that they can hold free, fair and peaceful internal elections — and then unite around the outcome — it strengthens public confidence in democratic institutions as a whole. Ghana has long been regarded as one of West Africa's most stable democracies, and the conduct of internal party processes contributes to that reputation.

The Road Ahead for NDC Regional Structures

The NDC's regional executive elections are part of a wider process of rebuilding and reorganising the party's structures following its return to power. Strong, well-functioning regional chapters are considered essential for effective governance at the district and community levels, where the impact of government policy is felt most directly by ordinary Ghanaians.

The Chief of Staff's remarks signal that the party's national leadership is paying close attention to how regional elections are managed, and that unity — not just electoral victory — will be the benchmark by which regional executives are judged.

• Winners are expected to reconcile with defeated candidates to maintain party cohesion.
• Internal elections reflect a party's democratic credentials and organisational capacity, the Chief of Staff said.
• NDC regional structures are seen as critical to the government's ability to deliver on its development agenda.